The Palisades nuclear power plant is the first decommissioned nuclear plant in America to begin the step-by-step process of making power again. One of those steps is refueling the plant’s reactor vessel. Crews started this process on August 30.
Loading the fuel officially puts the plant in what they call “Mode 6” as it returns to commercial operation.
Preparing the Palisades Nuclear Plant
For more than two years, crews conducted extensive inspections, testing, and repairs to ensure the plant can run reliably for years to come.
They reinforced tubes in the two steam generators and cleaned out corrosive buildup. They also replaced nozzles on the control rod drive mechanisms, chemically cleaned the primary system, and updated a lot of the equipment.
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Now, they are loading 204 fuel assemblies into the core. This includes brand-new fuel and some partially used fuel from before the plant originally closed. When fully up and running, the plant is designed to generate 805 megawatts of electricity.
Moving Forward
After the fuel is loaded, Palisades must pass a series of strict tests and inspections to ensure all systems are fit for operation.
“Loading fuel into the Palisades reactor is an important milestone and a reflection of the tremendous effort of the men and women who have brought this plant to this point,” Fadi Diya, the Chief Nuclear Officer at Holtec International, said. “I am proud to lead an organization with such talented and dedicated people who have a deep sense of pride in this plant and a deep commitment to their community. We remain focused on disciplined execution of the remaining work and returning Palisades to safe and reliable operation.”
The State of Michigan provided financial backing, and the U.S. Department of Energy gave a large loan. Also, Wolverine Power Cooperative and Hoosier Energy signed long-term agreements to buy the power. Now, the plant just needs to finish its final startup checks before its opening day.
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